に即して
In line with, Based on, In accordance with
Structure
Noun + に即した(1) + Noun
(1) に則した
Explanation
に即して is a formal expression used to indicate that an action is being performed based on a particular standard, situation, or fact. It is formed from the particle に and the て-form of the する-verb 即する, which means 'to be based on (A)' or 'to conform to (A)'. At times, the kanji に則して, 'in compliance with', is used instead, especially in legal or regulatory contexts.
This grammar pattern can appear before a verb, or it can be used to connect two nouns. When modifying a noun directly, its form changes from に即して to に即した.
- 現状に即して、計画を変更しましょう。Let's alter the plan based on the current circumstances.
- データに即して議論を進めないと、結論は出ないだろう。We probably won't reach a conclusion unless we proceed with the discussion based on the data.
- 校則に則した服装で学校に来てください。Please come to school in attire that conforms to the school regulations.
- どんな事件でも、法に則した公平な裁判が行われるべきだ。No matter the case, a fair trial based on the law should be conducted.
Caution
While similar, に即して is often used when an action is based on concrete facts or the present state of affairs. In contrast, に沿って is generally used for following along with guidelines, policies, or expectations. Although their meanings can overlap, there are cases where one is more natural than the other. In recent years, に即して is sometimes used more broadly for both nuances.
- お客様のご期待に即して、最高のサービスを提供します。We will provide the best service in accordance with our customers' expectations. (Slightly unnatural; 期待に沿って is more common)
Examples
新入社員は、まずマニュアルに則して作業を覚えることから始めます。
New employees start by learning their tasks in accordance with the manual.
裁判官は感情に流されず、証拠に即して判決を下すべきだ。
A judge should not be swayed by emotion and should deliver a verdict based on the evidence.
このAIは最新のデータに即して、明日の天気を予測します。
This AI predicts tomorrow's weather based on the latest data.
教師は学習指導要領に則した授業計画を立てる必要がある。
Teachers need to create lesson plans that are in line with the curriculum guidelines.
まずは自分自身の現状に即して、達成可能な目標を設定しよう。
First, let's set achievable goals based on our own current situation.
彼は常に事実に即して記事を書き、読者から高い信頼を得ている。
He always writes articles based on facts, earning a high degree of trust from his readers.
政府は、世論に即して新しい政策を検討している。
The government is considering a new policy in line with public opinion.
このドラマは、史実に即したストーリーで高い評価を受けている。
This drama has received high praise for its story, which is based on historical facts.
時代の変化に即して、我々のビジネスモデルも変えていかなければならない。
We must also change our business model in line with the changing times.
審判は国際サッカー連盟のルールに則して、あのプレーにレッドカードを出した。
The referee gave a red card for that play, in accordance with the rules of the International Football Federation.
お客様のご要望に即した最適なプランをご提案させていただきます。
We will propose the optimal plan that is tailored to your needs.
部長：「君の行動は社則に則していませんでした。きちんと反省してください。」
Department Head: 'Your actions were not in line with company regulations. Please reflect on them properly.'
流行だけを追うのではなく、もっと自分の個性に即して服を選んだほうがいいよ。
Instead of just chasing trends, you should choose clothes more in line with your own personality.